UK Weather Forecast: A Brief Taste of Spring Before the Chill
This weekend, certain regions of the UK are expected to experience warmer temperatures than popular European holiday destinations like the Costa del Sol and the Amalfi Coast, as an early burst of spring sunshine graces the country. A high of 19°C is anticipated in parts of north Wales and northwest England on Saturday, with many areas likely to see temperatures surpassing 17°C. Conditions are expected to remain predominantly dry across most of the country, although rain and wind may affect northern regions, with some light showers expected in the southwest.
According to Met Office spokesperson Honor Criswick, residents can look forward to “plenty of blue skies,” with temperatures “widely above average for this time of year.” The north of England is set to enjoy “the best of the sunshine” on Saturday, with nighttime temperatures dropping to a chilly 4-6°C overnight due to a mix of clouds and clearer spells.
Sunday will continue the trend of pleasant weather for many, significantly exceeding March’s average maximum temperature of 9.2°C, despite the far north of Scotland facing persistent rain. Central regions of the UK can expect highs of 18-19°C, with the possibility of isolated areas reaching a balmy 20°C. “The blue skies will remain,” Criswick added, noting that once again, highs of 17, 18, or 19°C are possible in areas with brighter conditions. Northern Ireland is also in for a treat, with potential highs of 15°C on Saturday and 16°C on Sunday.
The unseasonably warm weather means that temperatures in parts of the UK may outstrip those in well-known European destinations. For instance, Marbella is forecasted to reach only 15°C, Ibiza is expected to see a maximum of 17°C, and Sorrento on Italy’s Amalfi Coast is predicted to hit 18°C this weekend.
As the weekend approaches, cloud cover and light rain will gradually move northward across the country. However, the far north of Scotland may still enjoy some bright or sunny spells, with early spring warmth lingering in parts of eastern England as well.
Sun seekers should take full advantage of the weekend’s pleasant weather, as a notable shift in atmospheric conditions is on the horizon, bringing significantly cooler temperatures starting early next week. The Met Office predicts a band of rain will push southward across the UK on Monday, with wintry showers likely in northern regions.
By Tuesday, temperatures are expected to plummet below the March averages across the UK, with rural areas in Scotland potentially experiencing nighttime lows of -4°C.
Are You Prepared for the Upcoming Cold Snap?
As we anticipate a return to colder weather next week, it’s essential to prepare for the impending drop in temperatures. Here are several straightforward steps to help you stay comfortable during the cold and damp conditions:
- Keep Your Home Warm: While using electric and gas heating can provide immediate relief, it can also be costly. Ensure that warmth is retained within your home by sealing any gaps in windows or doors. Identifying and blocking drafty areas can significantly improve heat retention. Additionally, drawing your curtains can help keep warmth in, but be sure to open them during sunny periods.
- Layer Up: Wearing layers can greatly enhance your warmth. Consider adding an extra jumper, thick socks, or long johns under your clothing. The British Heart Foundation recommends sticking to wool, cotton, or fleece materials for optimal insulation.
- Keep Moving: Staying active can help generate body heat. Even light exercise, such as a brief jog around the block, can warm you up more effectively than sitting still, even if it feels cozy under your blankets.
Chris Bulmer, the Met Office’s deputy chief meteorologist, explained, “A frontal zone will move south across the UK during Sunday night and Monday, bringing much colder air from the north. With these cold northeasterly winds, we are likely to see some wintry showers across northern and eastern regions of the UK next week, although significant snow accumulations are expected mainly in hilly areas. Overnight frosts will return to many locations.”
The Met Office forecaster cautioned, “While there is uncertainty regarding the extent of rain and wintry showers throughout the middle of next week, there is a higher confidence level that below-average temperatures will persist, creating a stark contrast to the mild weather experienced over the weekend. This shift in weather comes after the UK recorded its hottest day of the year thus far, with a peak of 19°C in Santon Downham, Suffolk, on Thursday. Many areas in the southeast, including Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and London, also experienced temperatures exceeding 18°C this week.
